Summary:
Omya UK, a leading supplier of white minerals and chemicals, required a safe tanker access gantry to comply with health and safety working at height regulations. As part of Omya AG, a global leader in calcium carbonate-based fillers and pigments, Omya UK operates a fleet of tankers for product transportation. They sought a secure, easy-access solution that would allow operators to open and close tanker hatches while ensuring controlled access for safety purposes.
Challenges
Omya UK needed a tanker access solution that met strict safety regulations while maintaining efficiency. The access point had to provide full fall prevention for operators working on tanker tops, allow access to multiple manway covers from a single location, and fit within a limited space. Additionally, controlled access was essential to prevent unauthorised use and ensure security, minimising the risk of accidental drive-off
Solution
IFC designed and installed a four-metre-high safe tanker access gantry with a six-metre-long platform, fully enclosing the tanker loading and working area. The solution incorporated two sets of IFC FlowStep folding stairs, each equipped with a 4.5m x 1.4m Total Tanker Safety Cage. The system was tailored to Omya’s tanker sizes and designed with a small footprint to fit within the available space.
Key features included:
- Compression spring-balanced FlowStep folding stairs for ease of use.
- A fall prevention cage ensuring safe access to multiple manway covers.
- An access gate and key interlocks to enhance safety, security, and prevent accidental drive-offs.
IFC was also responsible for the installation and commissioning of the system, ensuring a seamless transition to the new safety setup.
Results
The custom-built tanker access gantry was designed, fabricated, and installed to Omya’s precise specifications. Installation was completed within a single day, with commissioning finalised the following morning.
The site now benefits from a purpose-built, compliant access system that provides safe, controlled tanker access. Operators can carry out tanker top operations more efficiently while ensuring full fall prevention, improving overall site safety and operational ease.
